Mac and Music News

Roland released the Version 1.50 operating update for the popular V-Synth synthesizer. Available at www.v-synth.com, the update offers a new sub-oscillator for analog modeled oscillators, new analog-modeling waveforms taken from the legendary D-50 synthesizer and a COSM filter model of the TB-303 Bass Line.

Octiv has just released the first audio plug-in ever available for Apple's iTunes player. The Volume Logic plug-in runs on Mac OS X and provides real-time digital remastering. It is available through a public beta program that runs until December 31, 2003. Free downloads are available on their site.

Octiv's Volume Logic plug-in improves the quality of the listening experience by digitally remastering audio in real-time with the same technology used by the pros in the music and broadcast business. Anything playing in iTunes including MP3s, AACs, Internet radio, or CDs will be digitally remastered for consistent volume level and spectral balance. Low levels are intelligently raised and loud signals are kept under control, all in real-time.

AES: MOTU is demonstrating MX4 ($295), a new virtual instrument plug-in for MOTU DP4 (MAS), Pro Tools (RTAS) and other Mac OS X audio hosts (Audio Units). MX4 features a unique, hybrid synthesis engine that combines several forms of synthesis, including subtractive, wavetable, frequency modulation (FM), amplitude modulation (AM) and analog emulation. MX4's flexible programming and advanced modulation architecture provide the intimacy of a vintage synth, the flexibility of a modular synth, and the innovation of a virtual synth.

As a plug-in, MX4 operates efficiently and provides unlimited voices, polyphony and instantiations (subject to the processing resources of the host computer). Playback is sample-accurate with supporting host applications, such as Digital Performer 4. MX4's 32-bit internal resolution provides wide dynamic range, and it supports all standard sample rates up to 192kHz. Users can work fast and intuitively in a single, efficiently organized window labeled with real-world values like semitones, decibels, etc. All settings are saved with host software projects for instant recall.

MOTU unveiled the 896HD, a double rack-space, FireWire audio interface. The 896HD replaces the 896 at the same price and adds many new features, including more simultaneous outputs (22), 192kHz operation, 8-bus monitor mixing and stand-alone operation.

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